John-Paul Violante
Senior Electrical Engineer
What does your job or volunteer work consist of?
My job consists of producing electrical drawings of building systems for clients. These electrical drawings are used for contractors to price and then build either new buildings or renovate existing buildings.
How do you apply engineering knowledge and principles to your job or volunteer work?
My job requires me to be knowledgeable in various building systems, such as fire alarm, lighting, power systems and controls. These systems affect the occupants within the building, and I must keep their safety in mind when designing these systems. I also have an obligation to the client to ensure that the specified systems are relevant and cost effective.
Why are you an OSPE member/why do you think the work OSPE does is important?
Engineers are the types of people who are task focused and are found more in the background, working on technical portions of projects. Sometimes, they are not recognized for the work that they do (especially if the project goes smoothly). It is important to have a separate organization that advocates on the behalf of Engineers to ensure that the public is aware of the important roles that Engineers perform.
What issues in the profession are most important to you?
When starting in the industry, I was not aware of the diversity in the types of jobs that Engineers work. It is important to raise awareness of the many diverse types of jobs that professional Engineers do every day.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t be afraid to say no from time to time. The requesting party can usually plan around this information if given immediately.
